After sampling the excellent Original and then the curiously subdued Rum Cask version, I finished off the holiday gift pack with this - a return to the silky-smooth, flavor burst of vanilla and fresh-cut oak staves.

Used-motor-oil sooty-red in color with an open foam structure that doesn't support head retention, poured into a snifter, the aforementioned redolent vanilla and a soft syrupy roasted malt aroma burst forth quite invitingly. These and the oak radiate with exceeding-moderate intensity, with esters well-developed but in check on the edges and a surprising yet mellow earthy hop flavor and bitterness to balance, yet nearly entirely absent of any unmistakable bourbon character.

With a lovely fullish, viscous yet vanishing texture, the beer overall caught me off-guard with just how moreish and enjoyable it was. In hindsight, I can say I am relieved that this wasn't a bourbon-bomb - not even close. This is yet another satisfying, uniquely distinctive ale from Innis & Gunn and, after sampling this entire set, I am sold on trying more of their products. Their beers have a refined, characteristic British taste to them - which is right up my alley.